Project Leader (Student) - Client Side Project Manager Review

by House of Commons

This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.

Rating

4/5
  • The Role
    4.6
  • The Company
    4.2
  • The Culture
    2.8

    The Role

  • 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

    • It was a great placement year that encompassed many aspects of the construction industry, as I was a project leader in the department of facilities, working mainly on engineering and conservation projects. It was extremely varied and the insight to the houses of parliament and the ceremonial procedures of the palace were amazing.

    5/5
  • 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

    • We were an integral part of the team, and on many occasions they requested that we stay as they felt they could learn from us as well as us learning from them. We were all treated as equals and many people throughout the organisation had no idea it was a placement and not a permanent role.

    5/5
  • 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

    • From the beginning we were given advice and support, but were often encouraged to find our own solutions and work through the project. This meant we had support when needed but were encouraged to spread our wings.

    5/5
  • 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

    • On a daily basis it varied on how busy you were...with all project management style roles, the stage of the project often determines your schedule. Throughout the year we were given several projects all at varied stages to try balance the day. At some points it was very hectic due to the nature of the parliamentary calendar we work around, but this sets you up for the real construction world which is often pedal to the metal!

    4/5
  • 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

    • We were given vast responsibility from the start and that only progressed as the year went on. We were always guided though to ensure the decisions/methods were correct but after about 7 months you have a good grasp of the role, so can make the important decisions correctly. You are given control of some smaller projects to work on, but you are also a supporting mechanism for some larger projects and are required to step in as necessary.

    5/5
  • 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

    • The skills I learnt here will always be extremely valid throughout my career. It for me was the most important year of my studies, and the contacts you make within the organisation of professionals, mean you have a great advise pool to draw upon!

    5/5

    The Company

  • 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

    • A very friendly but professional office, with a mix of professionals from all sorts of technical backgrounds. As you also work closely with finance, procurement, health & safety, fire and environmental and design authority as well as stakeholders your environment regularly changes.

    4/5
  • 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

    • The placement had some great opportunities and training weeks at the start, but with the nature of the role, a lot has to be learnt as you go through and anytime you feel you need more training, experience or knowledge they are happy to help accommodate!

    4/5
  • 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

    • They were happy to try get people from your appropriate technical institution to guide you (ICE, IMechE, APM, RICS) but on an informal basis. They also offer a service where you can sign up to your own training. They do not offer currently to pay for an ICE mentor but I'd suggest at interview you request this.

    5/5
  • 10. What were the perks on your work placement?

    • Subsidised Canteen

    Sports and Social Club

    Company Parties/Events

    Staff Sales/Staff Shop

    Above 25 days holiday
    5/5
  • 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

    • They are only a medium size team currently but over the next few years this is likely to expand and then they will be more appealing.

    4/5

    The Culture

  • 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

    • We had to organise our own with the other students, but as the company sections are so small there are few students but we did get together once a month. We also met with colleagues once a month and they did a Christmas dinner and away day.

    4/5
  • 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

    • It's in London so #NotCheap! I'd definitely recommend all the social life! as London is fantastic for new and sometimes free experiences.

    3/5
  • 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

    • Nightlife in Central London is great! always somewhere to go.

    3/5
  • 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

    • They do certain sports clubs, and some other activities. But there is always scope to set up further activities.

    3/5
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Details

Placement (10 Months+)

Architecture, Civil Engineering, Property Development, Engineering, Management Consulting, Government, Surveying

London

July 2015

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